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Bats
A bat has two size numbers: its length in inches and its drop. Length comes from her height. The drop comes from her age and strength.
What the numbers on a bat mean
- Length is measured in inches, from the knob to the end of the barrel.
- Weight is in ounces.
- Drop is the length minus the weight, shown as a minus number. A 30-inch bat that weighs 20 ounces is a -10. A bigger drop number means a lighter bat, so a -12 is lighter than a -10.
- Barrel width is the same on every fastpitch bat: 2 1/4 inches.
Bat size chart
Length by height
Drop by age
Lean lighter. Fastpitch rewards a quick swing, so a bat she can whip through the zone beats a heavy bat she has to muscle. A stronger player may move toward the longer or heavier end.
Three quick checks at home or in the store
- Reach test: she holds the knob against the middle of her chest and points the bat straight out to her side, along her arm. Her fingertips should just reach the end of the bat.
- Hip test: stand the bat on the floor, barrel down, next to her leg. The knob should land around her hip, between the top of the hip bone and the middle of her thigh. If it's up near her belt, it's too long.
- Weight test: she holds the bat by the handle straight out to her side with one arm for about 10 seconds. If the barrel drops, the bat is too heavy.
If she's between two lengths, try both and watch her swing. Most coaches pick the one she can swing faster with good control.
Bat stamps: the rule that trips up parents
Every legal fastpitch bat has a certification stamp, usually near the handle. The stamp has to match the league, or the bat can't be used in games.
- USA Softball mark: required in USA Softball leagues and in high school. High school (NFHS) rules require the ASA 2000, ASA 2004, or USA Softball All-Games mark, and the bat can't be on USA Softball's non-approved list.
- USSSA fastpitch mark: required at USSSA tournaments, which run a lot of travel ball.
- NSA and ISA marks: used by some leagues and tournaments.
- College: NCAA keeps its own approved list.
Most fastpitch bats carry several stamps, which covers most youth play. Before spending real money, ask the coach or league which stamp they require.
Common mistakes
- Buying a baseball bat. Baseball and slowpitch bats aren't legal in fastpitch. Look for "fastpitch" on the bat.
- Buying heavy to grow into. A bat that's too heavy slows her swing and builds bad habits.
- Buying a used bat without checking it. Check the stamp and the non-approved list, and skip bats with cracks or dents. Bats that were altered to hit harder are illegal.
- Using a composite bat in cold weather. Many makers warn that composite bats can crack in the cold. Check the bat's warranty.
First-season tip: Team bats are fine for a first season. Have her try teammates' bats to learn what length and weight feel right, then buy her own.
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